1
|
Li XW, Guo K, Wang CC, Yang Y, Li W, Talukder M, Li XN, Li JL. The Nrf2/ARE pathway as a potential target to ameliorate atrazine-induced endocrine disruption in granulosa cells. Poult Sci 2024; 103:103730. [PMID: 38631229 PMCID: PMC11040167 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2024.103730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Atrazine (ATR) is widely used worldwide as a commercial herbicide, Diaminochlorotriazine (DACT) is the main metabolite of ATR in the organism. Both of them disrupt the production of steroids and induce abnormal reproductive development. The granulosa cells (GCs) are important for growth and reproduction of animals. However, the toxicity of ATR on the GCs of birds is not well clarified. To evaluate the effect of the environmental pollutant ATR on bird GCs. The quail GCs were allotted into 7 groups, C (The medium of M199), A20 (20 µM ATR), A100 (100 µM ATR), A250 (250 µM ATR), D20 (20 µM DACT), D100 (100 µM DACT) and D200 (200 µM DACT). The results demonstrated that ATR reduced the viability of GCs, disrupted mitochondrial structure (including mitochondrial cristae fragmentation and the mitochondrial morphology disappearance) and decreased mitochondrial membrane potential. Meanwhile, ATR interfered with the expression of key factors in the steroid synthesis pathway, inducing the secretion of the sex hormones E2 and P in GCs. which in turn induced apoptosis. Furthermore, the Nrf2/ARE pathway as a potential target to ameliorate ATR-induced endocrine disruption in GCs for proper reproductive functions. Our research provides a new perspective for understanding the effects of ATR on reproductive functions in birds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Wei Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China
| | - Kai Guo
- Chifeng Agriculture and Animal Husbandry Comprehensive Administrative Law Enforcement Detachment, Chifeng City, Inner Mongolia, 024000, China
| | - Chi-Chiu Wang
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology; Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences; School of Biomedical Sciences; and The Chinese University of Hong Kong-Sichuan University Joint Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yu Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China
| | - Wei Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China
| | - Milton Talukder
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Patuakhali Science and Technology University, Barishal, 8210, Bangladesh
| | - Xue-Nan Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China; Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology; Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences; School of Biomedical Sciences; and The Chinese University of Hong Kong-Sichuan University Joint Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal Disease Prevention and Treatment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China.
| | - Jin-Long Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China; Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal Disease Prevention and Treatment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Cimadomo D, Innocenti F, Taggi M, Saturno G, Campitiello MR, Guido M, Vaiarelli A, Ubaldi FM, Rienzi L. How should the best human embryo in vitro be? Current and future challenges for embryo selection. Minerva Obstet Gynecol 2024; 76:159-173. [PMID: 37326354 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-606x.23.05296-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
In-vitro fertilization (IVF) aims at overcoming the causes of infertility and lead to a healthy live birth. To maximize IVF efficiency, it is critical to identify and transfer the most competent embryo within a cohort produced by a couple during a cycle. Conventional static embryo morphological assessment involves sequential observations under a light microscope at specific timepoints. The introduction of time-lapse technology enhanced morphological evaluation via the continuous monitoring of embryo preimplantation in vitro development, thereby unveiling features otherwise undetectable via multiple static assessments. Although an association exists, blastocyst morphology poorly predicts chromosomal competence. In fact, the only reliable approach currently available to diagnose the embryonic karyotype is trophectoderm biopsy and comprehensive chromosome testing to assess non-mosaic aneuploidies, namely preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidies (PGT-A). Lately, the focus is shifting towards the fine-tuning of non-invasive technologies, such as "omic" analyses of waste products of IVF (e.g., spent culture media) and/or artificial intelligence-powered morphologic/morphodynamic evaluations. This review summarizes the main tools currently available to assess (or predict) embryo developmental, chromosomal, and reproductive competence, their strengths, the limitations, and the most probable future challenges.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danilo Cimadomo
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy -
| | - Federica Innocenti
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
| | - Marilena Taggi
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
- Lazzaro Spallanzani Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Gaia Saturno
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
- Lazzaro Spallanzani Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Maria R Campitiello
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, ASL Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Maurizio Guido
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Alberto Vaiarelli
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
| | - Filippo M Ubaldi
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Rienzi
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Carlo Bo University of Urbino, Urbino, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Kussano NR, Franco MM, Dode MAN. Biochemical profiling of the follicular environment to predict oocyte competence in cattle. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0298316. [PMID: 38466703 PMCID: PMC10927144 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0298316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
To identify markers of oocyte competence, we compared the biochemical characteristics of fluid and cells from follicles containing oocytes with different capacities to form an embryo. Follicles (5-6 mm) were dissected, and follicular fluid (FF), granulosa cells (GC), cumulus cells (CC) from immature and mature cumulus-oocyte-complexes (COC) were individually collected. The oocytes were matured, fertilized, and cultured individually until day 8 (D8) of development. On D8, the samples were grouped according to embryo production into those that gave rise to blastocysts (EMB) and those that did not reach the blastocyst stage (NEMB). In CCs from immature and mature COCs and GCs, expression of CASP3, SERPINE2, VCAN, LUM, FSHR, EGFR, PGR, and GHR genes was quantified. Cell-free DNA (cfDNA), progesterone, and estradiol concentrations in the FF were determined. Data were analyzed by Mann-Whitney U test (GraphPad Prism 9). GHR was highly expressed in immature CCs from the EMB group, whereas CASP3 was highly expressed in mature CCs from the NEMB group (P<0.05). During maturation, the expression of CASP3 and GHR genes increased only in the NEMB group. ART2 cfDNA was highly detected in FF of the NEMB compared to the EMB group. Progesterone concentration was similar between the groups, whereas estradiol concentration was higher (P<0.05) in the EMB than in the NEMB group. It was concluded that a higher level of GHR transcripts in immature CCs, lower CASP3 expression in CCs from matured COCs, lower levels of ART2, and higher estradiol concentrations in FF may indicate oocytes with greater potential for development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Mauricio Machaim Franco
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília-DF, Brazil
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Institute of Biotechnology, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Margot Alves Nunes Dode
- Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasília-DF, Brazil
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília-DF, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Sachs MK, Makieva S, Velasco Gil A, Xie M, Ille F, Salvadori V, Schmidhauser M, Saenz-de-Juano MD, Ulbrich SE, Leeners B. Transcriptomic signature of luteinized cumulus cells of oocytes developing to live birth after women received intracytoplasmic sperm injection. F&S SCIENCE 2024; 5:24-38. [PMID: 38036000 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2023.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the transcriptome of human cumulus cells (CCs) from oocytes with different outcomes (pregnancy yes/no, live birth [LB] yes/no), to identify noninvasive biomarkers for oocyte selection as well as new therapeutic targets to increase LB rates from assisted reproductive technologies (ART). DESIGN Retrospective observational study. SETTINGS This study was conducted at a University Hospital in Switzerland. PATIENTS Subfertile couples undergoing controlled ovarian superstimulation and intracytoplasmic sperm injection with subsequent unbiopsied embryo transfer below the female age of 43 years. INTERVENTION(S) RNA sequencing of CCs from oocytes results in a pregnancy, no pregnancy, LB, or no LB. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Differential gene expression (DEG) between CCs of oocytes results in "no pregnancy" vs. "pregnancy" and "pregnancy only" vs. "live birth." RESULTS Although RNA sequencing did not reveal DEGs when comparing the transcriptomic profiles of the groups "no pregnancy" with "pregnancy," we identified 139 DEGs by comparing "pregnancy only" with "live birth," of which 28 belonged to clusters relevant to successful ART outcomes (i.e., CTGF, SERPINE2, PCK1, HHIP, HS3ST, and BIRC5). A functional enrichment analysis revealed that the transcriptome of CCs associated with LB depicts pathways of extracellular matrix, inflammatory cascades leading to ovulation, cell patterning, proliferation, and differentiation, and silencing pathways leading to apoptosis. CONCLUSION We identified a CCs transcriptomic profile associated with LB after embryo transfer that, after further validation, could serve to predict successful ART outcomes. The definition of relevant pathways of CCs related to oocyte competency contributes to a broader understanding of the cumulus oocyte complex and helps identify further therapeutic targets for improving ART success.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maike K Sachs
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, Frauenklinikstrasse, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Sofia Makieva
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, Frauenklinikstrasse, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ana Velasco Gil
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, Frauenklinikstrasse, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Min Xie
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, Frauenklinikstrasse, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Fabian Ille
- Center of Bioscience and Medical Engineering, Institute of Medical Engineering, Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Obermattweg, Hergiswil, Switzerland
| | - Vincent Salvadori
- Center of Bioscience and Medical Engineering, Institute of Medical Engineering, Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Obermattweg, Hergiswil, Switzerland
| | - Meret Schmidhauser
- ETH Zürich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Universitätsstrasse Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mara D Saenz-de-Juano
- ETH Zürich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Universitätsstrasse Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Susanne E Ulbrich
- ETH Zürich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Universitätsstrasse Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Brigitte Leeners
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, Frauenklinikstrasse, Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Faheem MS, Ghanem N, Samy R, Barkawi AH. Molecular, enzymatic responses and in vitro embryonic developmental competency of heat-shocked buffalo embryos co-cultured with granulosa cells monolayer. Theriogenology 2023; 211:203-211. [PMID: 37659251 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023]
Abstract
The present study was designed to establish a suitable alternative approach to mitigate the adverse effect of high culture temperature on in vitro embryo development and the related molecular response in buffalo. Pre-cultured granulosa cells (GCs) were used as a monolayer during in vitro embryo culture until day 8 (day of fertilization = D0). Post fertilization, presumptive embryos were randomly assigned into two culture conditions: embryos cultured in the presence of GCs monolayer under normal culture temperature (N: 38.5 °C; GEN group) or heat shock (H: 40.5 °C; GEH group) and their counterpart groups of embryos cultured without GCs (EN and EH groups). Additionally, two groups of GCs monolayer were cultured without embryos up to day 8 under 38.5 °C (GN) or 40.5 °C (GH) for further spent culture media enzymatic analyses. Heat shock was administered for the first 2 h of culture then continued at 38.5 °C until day 8. The results indicated that under heat treatment, GCs enhanced (P ≤ 0.05) embryo cleavage and development (day 8) rates, which were comparable to the embryos cultured at 38.5 °C. On the molecular level, blastocysts of the GEH group showed similar expressions of metabolism-regulating genes (CPT2 and SlC2A1/GLUT1) and an antioxidant gene (SOD2) when compared to the blastocysts of the EN group. The relative expression of HSP90 was significantly up-regulated under heat shock and/or co-culture conditions. However, HSF1 expression was increased (P ≤ 0.05) in the GEH group. No statistical differences were observed among the study groups for the pluripotency gene NANOG, and stress resistance transcript NFE2L2. Regarding the enzymatic profile, the concentrations of SOD, total protein, and MDA were decreased (P ≤ 0.05) in the GEH group compared to the cultured GCs without embryos (GH group). In conclusion, GCs as a monolayer have a beneficial impact on alleviating heat stress at the zygote stage through the regulatory mechanisms of metabolic activity, defense system, and heat shock response genes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marwa S Faheem
- Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt; Cairo University Research Park (CURP), Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt.
| | - Nasser Ghanem
- Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Romysa Samy
- Cairo University Research Park (CURP), Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Ashraf Hesham Barkawi
- Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt; Dubai Police Academy, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Zavatta A, Parisi F, Mandò C, Scaccabarozzi C, Savasi VM, Cetin I. Role of Inflammaging on the Reproductive Function and Pregnancy. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2023; 64:145-160. [PMID: 35031955 PMCID: PMC8760119 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-021-08907-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
During female lifetime and pregnancy, inflammation and cellular senescence are implicated in physiological processes, from ovulation and menstruation, to placental homeostasis and delivery. Several lifestyles, nutritional, and environmental insults, as well as long-lasting pregestational inflammatory diseases may lead to detrimental effects in promoting and sustaining a chronic excessive inflammatory response and inflammaging, which finally contribute to the decay of fertility and pregnancy outcome, with a negative effect on placental function, fetal development, and future health risk profile in the offspring. Maladaptation to pregnancy and obstetric disease may in turn increase maternal inflammaging in a feedback loop, speeding up aging processes and outbreak of chronic diseases. Maternal inflammaging may also impact, through transgenerational effects, on future adult health. Hence, efficacious interventions should be implemented by physicians and healthcare professionals involved in prevention activities to reduce the modifiable factors contributing to the inflammaging process in order to improve public health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alice Zavatta
- Department of Woman Mother and Neonate 'V. Buzzi' Children Hospital, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, 20154, Milan, Italy
- Department of Woman Mother and Neonate 'L. Sacco' Hospital, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, 20157, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Parisi
- Department of Woman Mother and Neonate 'V. Buzzi' Children Hospital, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, 20154, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Mandò
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, "Luigi Sacco", University of Milan, 20157, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Scaccabarozzi
- Department of Woman Mother and Neonate 'L. Sacco' Hospital, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, 20157, Milan, Italy
| | - Valeria M Savasi
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, "Luigi Sacco", University of Milan, 20157, Milan, Italy
- Department of Woman Mother and Neonate 'L. Sacco' Hospital, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, 20157, Milan, Italy
| | - Irene Cetin
- Department of Woman Mother and Neonate 'V. Buzzi' Children Hospital, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, 20154, Milan, Italy.
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, "Luigi Sacco", University of Milan, 20157, Milan, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
RNA sequencing-based transcriptome analysis of granulosa cells from follicular fluid: Genes involved in embryo quality during in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0280495. [PMID: 36857405 PMCID: PMC9977003 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0280495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Granulosa cells play an important role in folliculogenesis, however, the role of RNA transcripts of granulosa cells in assessing embryo quality remains unclear. Therefore, we aims to investigate that RNA transcripts of granulosa cells be used to assess the probability of the embryonic developmental capacity. METHODS This prospective cohort study was attempted to figure out the probability of the embryonic developmental capacity using RNA sequencing of granulosa cells. Granulosa cells were collected from 48 samples in good-quality embryo group and 79 in only poor- quality embryo group from women undergoing in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer treatment. Three samples from each group were used for RNA sequencing. RESULTS 226 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were related to high developmental competence of embryos. Gene Ontology enrichment analysis indicated that these DEGs were primarily involved in biological processes, molecular functions, and cellular components. Additionally, pathway analysis revealed that these DEGs were enriched in 13 Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways. Reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction verified the differential expression of the 13 selected DEGs. Among them,10 genes were differently expressed in the poor-quality embryo group compared to good-quality embryo group, including CSF1R, CTSH, SERPINA1, CYP27A1, ITGB2, IL1β, TNF, TAB1, BCL2A1, and CCL4. CONCLUSIONS RNA sequencing data provide the support or confute granulosa expressed genes as non-invasive biomarkers for identifying the embryonic developmental capacity.
Collapse
|
8
|
Using Cumulus Cell Biopsy as a Non-Invasive Tool to Access the Quality of Bovine Oocytes: How Informative Are They? Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12223113. [PMID: 36428341 PMCID: PMC9686866 DOI: 10.3390/ani12223113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to determine whether cumulus cells (CC) biopsy, acquired before or after in vitro maturation (IVM), presents similar gene expression pattern and if would compromises oocyte quality. First, immature cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) were distributed: (1) maturated in groups (control); (2) individually maturated, but not biopsied; (3) subjected to CC biopsy before maturation and individually matured; (4) individually matured and submitted to CC biopsy after maturation; (5) individually matured and CC biopsied before and after maturation. Secondly, candidate genes, described as potential markers of COCs quality, were quantified by RT-qPCR in CCs before and after IVM. After in vitro fertilization (IVF), zygotes were tracked and sorted regarding their developmental potential: fully developed to embryo, cleaved and arrested, and not-cleaved. The COC’s biopsy negatively affects embryo development (p < 0.05), blastocyst cell number (p < 0.05), and apoptotic cell ratio (p < 0.05), both before and after IVM. The PTGS2, LUM, ALCAM, FSHR, PGR, SERPINE2, HAS2, and PDRX3 genes were differentially expressed (p < 0.05) on matured CCs. Only PGR gene (p = 0.04) was under-expressed on matured CCs on Not-Cleaved group. The SERPINE2 gene was overexpressed (p = 0.01) in the Cleaved group on immature CCs. In summary, none of the selected gene studies can accurately predict COC’s fate after fertilization.
Collapse
|
9
|
Zhang Y, Chen X, Zhou Z, Tian X, Yang P, Fu K. CYP19A1 May Influence Lambing Traits in Goats by Regulating the Biological Function of Granulosa Cells. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12151911. [PMID: 35953905 PMCID: PMC9367365 DOI: 10.3390/ani12151911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Aromatase (CYP19A1), a member of the cytochrome family, is widely expressed in ovarian and granulosa cells and is primarily responsible for the conversion of androgens to estrogens. Increased expression of CYP19A1 in follicular granulosa cells has implications for cell proliferation, steroid hormone secretion, and the expression of related functional indicator genes. We hypothesize that CYP19A1 may indirectly influence lambing numbers in goats by regulating follicular cell growth and development, as well as ovarian ovulation. Abstract Abnormal expression of CYP19A1, a gene related to steroid hormone synthesis, causes steroid hormone disruption and leads to abnormal ovulation in granulosa cells. However, the exact mechanism of CYP19A1 regulation is unclear. In this study, we confirmed the localization of CYP19A1 in goat ovarian tissues using immunohistochemistry. Subsequently, we investigated the effects of CYP19A1 on granulosa cell proliferation, steroid hormone secretion, and expression of candidate genes for multiparous traits by overexpressing and silencing CYP19A1 in goat granulosa cells (GCs). The immunohistochemistry results showed that CYP19A1 was expressed in all types of follicular, luteal, and granulosa cells, with subcellular localization results revealing that CYP19A1 protein was mainly localized in the cytoplasm and nucleus. Overexpression of CYP19A1 significantly increased the mRNA levels of CYP19A1, FSHR, and INHBA, which are candidate genes for multiple birth traits in goats. It also promoted cell proliferation, PCNA and Cyclin E mRNA levels in granulosa cells, and secretion of estrogen and progesterone. However, it inhibited the mRNA levels of STAR, CYP11A1, and 3βSHD, which are genes related to steroid synthesis. Silencing CYP19A1 expression significantly reduced CYP19A1, FSHR, and INHBA mRNA levels in granulosa cells and inhibited granulosa cell proliferation and PCNA and Cyclin E mRNA levels. It also reduced estrogen and progesterone secretion but enhanced the mRNA levels of STAR, CYP11A1, and 3βSHD. CYP19A1 potentially influenced the lambing traits in goats by affecting granulosa cell proliferation, hormone secretion, and expression of candidate genes associated with traits for multiple births.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in The Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China; (Y.Z.); (Z.Z.); (X.T.); (P.Y.); (K.F.)
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Guiyang 550025, China
- College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Xiang Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in The Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China; (Y.Z.); (Z.Z.); (X.T.); (P.Y.); (K.F.)
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Guiyang 550025, China
- College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China
- Correspondence:
| | - Zhinan Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in The Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China; (Y.Z.); (Z.Z.); (X.T.); (P.Y.); (K.F.)
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Guiyang 550025, China
- College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Xingzhou Tian
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in The Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China; (Y.Z.); (Z.Z.); (X.T.); (P.Y.); (K.F.)
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Guiyang 550025, China
- College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Peifang Yang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in The Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China; (Y.Z.); (Z.Z.); (X.T.); (P.Y.); (K.F.)
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Guiyang 550025, China
- College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Kaibing Fu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in The Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China; (Y.Z.); (Z.Z.); (X.T.); (P.Y.); (K.F.)
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Guiyang 550025, China
- College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Mohan Jeena L, Kumar D, Rahangdale S, Pratap Singh A, Chandra Sarkhel B. Transcriptional profile of cumulus associated GJA1, PTX3, PRSS35, and SERPINE2 genes with oocytes and embryonic development in water buffalo. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:6285-6293. [PMID: 35460443 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-07435-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the present study, the potential of different groups of cumulus-oocyte complexes (COC's) for in vitro maturation (IVM) and embryonic development was assessed in two groups of COC's of water buffalo. Further, the expression pattern of cumulus-associated GJA1, PTX3, PRSS35, and SERPINE2 genes and their effects on embryonic development was analyzed. Slaughterhouse-derived buffalo COC's were graded into groups A and B. An equal number of 410 COC's were taken in both groups. IVM was carried out using Slaughterhouse-derived buffalo epididymis. A remarkable degree of cumulus expansion was noticed in group A (92.68%) as compared to group B (81.25%) oocytes. On in vitro fertilization (IVF) and embryo culture, group A produced a significantly higher rate of cleavage and blastocyst (92.682 ± 0.7179% and 42.682 ± 0.9683%) as compared to group B (85.365 ± 0.7608% and 31.707 ± 0.9688%). Also, the transcriptional analysis of cumulus-associated genes revealed significantly higher expression in group A as compared to group B. RESULTS It was revealed that oocytes having good cumulus mass had a higher developmental potential. Based on differential gene expression of cumulus-associated genes, different quality of COC's, and the resultant embryos after IVF, it was concluded that these genes could be used as a marker for predicting the developmental competence of the oocytes. CONCLUSION We concluded that morphologically good quality of COC's had a higher developmental competence, and also the differential expressions of cumulus-associated genes in cumulus cells and embryos. So, we can conclude that these genes could be used as marker genes for predicting the developmental competence of buffalo's oocytes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lalit Mohan Jeena
- Animal Biotechnology Center, Nanaji Deshmukh Veterinary Science University, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, 482004, India.
| | - Dharmendra Kumar
- Animal Biotechnology Center, Nanaji Deshmukh Veterinary Science University, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, 482004, India
| | - Sandeep Rahangdale
- Animal Biotechnology Center, Nanaji Deshmukh Veterinary Science University, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, 482004, India
| | - Ajit Pratap Singh
- Animal Biotechnology Center, Nanaji Deshmukh Veterinary Science University, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, 482004, India
| | - Bikash Chandra Sarkhel
- Animal Biotechnology Center, Nanaji Deshmukh Veterinary Science University, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, 482004, India
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Da Luz CM, Da Broi MG, Koopman LDO, Plaça JR, da Silva-Jr WA, Ferriani RA, Meola J, Navarro PA. Transcriptomic analysis of cumulus cells shows altered pathways in patients with minimal and mild endometriosis. Sci Rep 2022; 12:5775. [PMID: 35388025 PMCID: PMC8986826 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-09386-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disorder that is highly associated with infertility. This association seems to be related to oocyte impairment, mainly in the initial stages of endometriosis (minimal and mild), where no distortions or adhesions are present. Nonetheless, invasive oocyte analyses are not routinely feasible; thus, indirect assessment of oocyte quality is highly desirable, and, in this context, cumulus cells (CCs) may be more suitable targets of analysis. CCs are crucial in oocyte development and could be used as an index of oocyte quality. Therefore, this prospective case–control study aimed to shed light on the infertility mechanisms of endometriosis I/II by analyzing the CCs’ mRNA transcription profile (women with endometriosis I/II, n = 9) compared to controls (women with tubal abnormalities or male factor, n = 9). The transcriptomic analyses of CCs from patients with minimal and mild endometriosis revealed 26 differentially expressed genes compared to the controls. The enrichment analysis evidenced some altered molecular processes: Cytokine-cytokine receptor interactions, Chemokine signaling, TNF signaling, NOD-like receptor signaling, NF-kappa B signaling, and inflammatory response. With the exception of CXCL12, all enriched genes were downregulated in CCs from patients with endometriosis. These findings provide a significant achievement in the field of reproductive biology, directing future studies to discover biomarkers of oocyte quality in endometriosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Mantovani Da Luz
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, 3900 Bandeirantes Avenue, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 14049-900, Brazil. .,National Institute of Hormones and Women's Health, CNPq, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande Do Sul, 90035-003, Brazil.
| | - Michele Gomes Da Broi
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, 3900 Bandeirantes Avenue, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 14049-900, Brazil.,National Institute of Hormones and Women's Health, CNPq, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande Do Sul, 90035-003, Brazil
| | - Larissa de Oliveira Koopman
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, 3900 Bandeirantes Avenue, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 14049-900, Brazil.,National Institute of Hormones and Women's Health, CNPq, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande Do Sul, 90035-003, Brazil
| | - Jessica Rodrigues Plaça
- Center for Integrative Systems Biology - CISBi, NAP/USP, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Wilson Araújo da Silva-Jr
- Center for Integrative Systems Biology - CISBi, NAP/USP, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 14049-900, Brazil.,Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Rui Alberto Ferriani
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, 3900 Bandeirantes Avenue, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 14049-900, Brazil.,National Institute of Hormones and Women's Health, CNPq, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande Do Sul, 90035-003, Brazil
| | - Juliana Meola
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, 3900 Bandeirantes Avenue, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 14049-900, Brazil.,National Institute of Hormones and Women's Health, CNPq, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande Do Sul, 90035-003, Brazil
| | - Paula Andrea Navarro
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, 3900 Bandeirantes Avenue, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 14049-900, Brazil.,National Institute of Hormones and Women's Health, CNPq, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande Do Sul, 90035-003, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Sciorio R, Miranian D, Smith GD. Non-invasive oocyte quality assessment. Biol Reprod 2022; 106:274-290. [PMID: 35136962 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocyte quality is perhaps the most important limiting factor in female fertility; however, the current methods of determining oocyte competence are only marginally capable of predicting a successful pregnancy. We aim to review the predictive value of non-invasive techniques for the assessment of human oocytes and their related cells and biofluids that pertain to their developmental competence. Investigation of the proteome, transcriptome, and hormonal makeup of follicular fluid, as well as cumulus-oocyte complexes are currently underway; however, prospective randomized non-selection-controlled trials of the future are needed before determining their prognostic value. The biological significance of polar body morphology and genetics are still unknown and the subject of debate. The predictive utility of zygotic viscoelasticity for embryo development has been demonstrated, but similar studies performed on oocytes have yet to be conducted. Metabolic profiling of culture media using human oocytes are also limited and may require integration of automated, high-throughput targeted metabolomic assessments in real time with microfluidic platforms. Light exposure to oocytes can be detrimental to subsequent development and utilization of time-lapse imaging and morphometrics of oocytes is wanting. Polarized light, Raman microspectroscopy, and coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering are a few novel imaging tools that may play a more important role in future oocyte assessment. Ultimately, the integration of chemistry, genomics, microfluidics, microscopy, physics, and other biomedical engineering technologies into the basic studies of oocyte biology, and in testing and perfecting practical solutions of oocyte evaluation, are the future for non-invasive assessment of oocytes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Romualdo Sciorio
- Edinburgh Assisted Conception Programme, EFREC, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Daniel Miranian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Gary D Smith
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department of Physiology, Urology, and Reproductive Sciences Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Alberico HC, Woods DC. Role of Granulosa Cells in the Aging Ovarian Landscape: A Focus on Mitochondrial and Metabolic Function. Front Physiol 2022; 12:800739. [PMID: 35153812 PMCID: PMC8829508 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.800739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria are at the intersection of aging and fertility, with research efforts centered largely on the role that these specialized organelles play in the relatively rapid decline in oocyte quality that occurs as females approach reproductive senescence. In addition to various roles in oocyte maturation, fertilization, and embryogenesis, mitochondria are critical to granulosa cell function. Herein, we provide a review of the literature pertaining to the role of mitochondria in granulosa cell function, with emphasis on how mitochondrial aging in granulosa cells may impact reproduction in female mammals.
Collapse
|
14
|
Sayutti N, Abu MA, Ahmad MF. PCOS and Role of Cumulus Gene Expression in Assessing Oocytes Quality. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:843867. [PMID: 35721714 PMCID: PMC9204264 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.843867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The global infertility rate has been declining from year to year. PCOS is one of the treatable accountable causes contributing to anovulatory infertility. Nevertheless, the success rate of treatments and live-birth outcomes especially involving assisted reproductive techniques is still not very promising. There is a reduction in the development potential of oocytes and high-quality embryos in PCOS patients compared to non-PCOS patients. A critical step in IVF treatment is the assessment of oocyte and embryo competence before embryo transfer. Oocytes in metaphase II are very fragile. Repeated morphological assessment on these oocytes may directly impair the quality and affect the whole process. Identification of potential biomarkers especially in the cumulus cells oocytes complex will help to predict the outcome and may create space for improvement. This review has explored gene expression in cumulus cells with regards to oocytes quality in both normal and PCOS women. The gene expression was classified according to their physiological function such as the contribution on cumulus expansion, cumulus cells apoptosis, and glucose metabolism. Collectively, the review suggested that positive expression of HAS2, PTX3, GREM1, and VCAN may correlate with good quality oocytes and can be used as an indicator among PCOS women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nurainie Sayutti
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- *Correspondence: Nurainie Sayutti,
| | - Muhammad Azrai Abu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Reproductive Centre, Hospital Chancellor Tuanku Muhriz, National University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Faizal Ahmad
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Reproductive Centre, Hospital Chancellor Tuanku Muhriz, National University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Kussano NR, Leme LDO, Dode MAN. Protein source in maturation media affects gene expression in cumulus cells and embryo development in cattle. Anim Biotechnol 2021:1-14. [PMID: 34964703 DOI: 10.1080/10495398.2021.2019755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
We aimed to evaluate if protein source (PS) alterations during IVM affect embryo sex/development and gene expression profile in cumulus cells (CCs). Bovine oocytes were matured and cultured in the presence of FBS or BSA. Then, the PS effect during IVM on gene expression (GPC4, VCAN, GHR, PTGS2, and ALCAM) was determined. CC biopsy was removed before and after IVM treatments. After fertilization and cultured, CCs were grouped according to their fate into CCs from immature COCs, CCs from COCs that did or did not result in embryos (according to PS). Results showed that when the culture was performed in FBS presence, blastocyst rate was higher (p < 0.05) than BSA. However, when embryos were cultured with BSA, no effect (p > 0.05) of PS during IVM was observed. PS used during IVM did not affect embryos sex (p > 0.05) but changed VCAN, GHR, PTGS2, and ALCAM genes expression. No differences (p > 0.05) were observed between immature and mature CCs groups in gene expression, regardless of their fate. Only the GHR gene was related to embryo production but just with FBS on IVM. In conclusion, PS can affect embryo development when using the serum on IVM and IVC, influences CCs gene expression, and has to be considered when studying oocyte quality markers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Margot Alves Nunes Dode
- Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasília, Brazil.,Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Sirard MA. The two-step process of ovarian follicular growth and maturation in mammals can be compared to a fruit ripening where quality depends on the second step. Biol Reprod 2021; 106:230-234. [PMID: 34939644 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In human IVF, the main uncertainty factor impacting on success is oocyte quality, which largely depends on the follicular status at the time of collection. Decades of debate ensued to find the perfect stimulation protocol demonstrated the complexity of the ovarian response to exogenous gonadotropins and the dynamic nature of late folliculogenesis. Although several follicular markers, proteins, RNA from granulosa cells or microRNA and follicular fluid metabolites have been associated with outcome, the possibility to influence them during stimulation remains elusive. The heterogeneity of the follicle's maturity following control ovarian stimulation is also an important factor to explain average poor oocyte quality still observed today. In this review, the analogy between the apple ripening on the tree and follicular development is presented to focus the attention on a biphasic process: growth and differentiation. The molecular analysis of the progressive follicular differentiation indicates 2 competing phenomena: growth and differentiation where a delicate balance must operate from one to the other to ensure proper maturity at ovulation. As long as FSH stimulates growth, follicles remain green, and it is only when FSH is replaced by LH that the ripening process begins, and "apples" become red. Both fruits, follicles and apples, depend on a perfect timing of events to generate offspring.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marc-André Sirard
- Centre de recherche en reproduction, développement et santé intergénérationnelle (CRDSI).,Département des Sciences Animales, Faculté des sciences de l'agriculture et de l'alimentation, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Mei Q, Li H, Liu Y, Wang X, Xiang W. Advances in the study of CDC42 in the female reproductive system. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 26:16-24. [PMID: 34859585 PMCID: PMC8742232 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
CDC42 is a member of the Rho‐GTPase family and is involved in a variety of cellular functions including regulation of cell cycle progression, constitution of the actin backbone and membrane transport. In particular, CDC42 plays a key role in the establishment of polarity in female vertebrate oocytes, and essential to this major regulatory role is its local occupation of specific regions of the cell to ensure that the contractile ring is assembled at the right time and place to ensure proper gametogenesis. The multifactor controlled ‘inactivation‐activation’ process of CDC42 also allows it to play an important role in the multilevel signalling network, and the synergistic regulation of multiple genes ensures maximum precision during gametogenesis. The purpose of this paper is to review the role of CDC42 in the control of gametogenesis and to explore its related mechanisms, with the aim of further understanding the great research potential of CDC42 in female vertebrate germ cells and its future clinical translation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiaojuan Mei
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Huiying Li
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaofei Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenpei Xiang
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Cuthbert JM, Russell SJ, Polejaeva IA, Meng Q, White KL, Benninghoff AD. Comparing mRNA and sncRNA profiles during the maternal-to-embryonic transition in bovine IVF and scNT embryos. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:1401-1415. [PMID: 34514499 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Production of embryos with high developmental competence by somatic cell nuclear transfer (scNT) is far less efficient than for in vitro fertilized (IVF) embryos, likely due to an accumulation of errors in genome reprogramming that results in aberrant expression of RNA transcripts, including messenger RNAs (mRNA) and, possibly, microRNAs (miRNA). Thus, our objectives were to use RNAseq to determine the dynamics of mRNA expression in early developing scNT and IVF embryos in the context of the maternal-to-embryonic transition (MET) and to correlate apparent transcriptional dysregulation in cloned embryos with miRNA expression profiles. Comparisons between scNT and IVF embryos indicated large scale transcriptome differences, which were most evident at the 8-cell and morula stages for genes associated with biological functions critical for the MET. For two miRNAs previously identified as differentially expressed in scNT morulae, miR-34a and miR-345, negative correlations with some predicted mRNA targets were apparent, though not widespread among the majority of predicted targets. Moreover, although large-scale aberrations in expression of mRNAs were evident during the MET in cattle scNT embryos, these changes were not consistently correlated with aberrations in miRNA expression at the same developmental stage, suggesting that other mechanisms controlling gene expression may be involved.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jocelyn M Cuthbert
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, 4815 Old Main Hill, Utah State University, Logan, Utah 84322, USA
| | - Stewart J Russell
- CReATe Fertility Centre, 790 Bay St. #1100, Toronto, M5G 1N8, Canada
| | - Irina A Polejaeva
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, 4815 Old Main Hill, Utah State University, Logan, Utah 84322, USA
| | - Qinggang Meng
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, 4815 Old Main Hill, Utah State University, Logan, Utah 84322, USA
| | - Kenneth L White
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, 4815 Old Main Hill, Utah State University, Logan, Utah 84322, USA
| | - Abby D Benninghoff
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, 4815 Old Main Hill, Utah State University, Logan, Utah 84322, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Gandhi S, Nor Rashid N, Mohamad Razif MF, Othman S. Proteasomal degradation of p130 facilitate cell cycle deregulation and impairment of cellular differentiation in high-risk Human Papillomavirus 16 and 18 E7 transfected cells. Mol Biol Rep 2021; 48:5121-5133. [PMID: 34169395 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-06509-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The High-Risk Human Papillomaviruses (HR-HPVs) 16 and 18 are known to cause cervical cancer, which is primarily attributed to E6 and E7 oncoproteins. In addition, recent studies have focused on the vital role of the p130 pocket protein as an oncosuppressor to limit the expression of E2F transcription factors required for cell cycle progression. In view of this, the current study was conducted to investigate the mechanism by which transfection with HPV16/18 E7 leads to the deregulation of the host cell cycle, altering the localisation of p130, and expression of differentiation genes in Human Keratinocytes (HaCaT) cells. Co-immunoprecipitation, Western blot analysis, immunofluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry, quantitative-Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR), and the inhibition of p130 by MG132 inhibitor were employed to investigate the loss of p130 and its disruption in HPV 16/18 E7-transfected HaCaT cells. The HPV16- and HPV18-transformed cells, known as CaSki and HeLa, respectively, were also used to complement the ectopic expressions of E7 in HaCaT cells. Normal keratinocytes displayed higher level of p130 expression than HPV-transformed cells. In addition, the immunofluorescence analysis revealed that both HPV 16/18 E7-transfected HaCaT and HPV-transformed cells exhibited higher level of cytoplasmic p130 compared to nuclear p130. A significant increase in the number of S/G2 phase cells in HPV-transformed cells was also recorded since E7 has been shown to stimulate proliferation through the deactivation of Retinoblastoma Protein (pRB)-dependent G1/S checkpoint. Furthermore, the findings recorded the down-regulation of keratinocyte differentiation markers, namely p130, keratin10, and involucrin. The proteasomal degradation of the exported p130 confirmed the cellular localisation pattern of p130, which was commonly observed in cancerous cells. The findings provide strong evidence that the localisation of nuclear p130 nuclear was disrupted by HPV16/18 E7 led to the deregulation of the cell cycle and the impairment of cellular differentiation ultimately lead to cellular transformation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sivasangkary Gandhi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nurshamimi Nor Rashid
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
- Drug Design and Development Research Group, Universiti Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | | | - Shatrah Othman
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Drug Design and Development Research Group, Universiti Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Stratifying Cumulus Cell Samples Based on Molecular Profiling to Help Resolve Biomarker Discrepancies and to Predict Oocyte Developmental Competence. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22126377. [PMID: 34203623 PMCID: PMC8232172 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
To increase the efficiency of assisted reproductive techniques (ART), molecular studies have been performed to identify the best predictive biomarkers for selecting the most suitable germ cells for fertilization and the best embryo for intra-uterine transfer. However, across different studies, no universal markers have been found. In this study, we addressed this issue by generating gene expression and CpG methylation profiles of outer cumulus cells obtained during intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). We also studied the association of the generated genomic data with the clinical parameters (spindle presence, zona pellucida birefringence, pronuclear pattern, estrogen level, endometrium size and lead follicle size) and the pregnancy result. Our data highlighted the presence of several parameters that affect analysis, such as inter-individual differences, inter-treatment differences, and, above all, specific treatment protocol differences. When comparing the pregnancy outcome following the long protocol (GnRH agonist) of ovarian stimulation, we identified the single gene markers (NME6 and ASAP1, FDR < 5%) which were also correlated with endometrium size, upstream regulators (e.g., EIF2AK3, FSH, ATF4, MKNK1, and TP53) and several bio-functions related to cell death (apoptosis) and cellular growth and proliferation. In conclusion, our study highlighted the need to stratify samples that are very heterogeneous and to use pathway analysis as a more reliable and universal method for identifying markers that can predict oocyte development potential.
Collapse
|
21
|
Da Luz CM, Da Broi MG, Plaça JR, Silva WA, Meola J, Navarro PA. Altered transcriptome in cumulus cells of infertile women with advanced endometriosis with and without endometrioma. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 42:952-962. [PMID: 33736992 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Is the transcriptome of cumulus cells of infertile women with advanced endometriosis (EIII/IV), with and without endometrioma, altered? DESIGN In this prospective case-control study, next-generation RNA sequencing was used to compare the transcript profile of cumulus cells among infertile patients undergoing ovarian stimulation for intracytoplasmic sperm injection with EIII/IV, with (n = 9) and without endometrioma (n = 9), and controls (n = 9). An in-silico enrichment analysis was conducted to establish the possibly altered pathways in cumulus cells of patients with endometriosis. RESULTS Most of the differentially expressed genes (DEG) were found when cumulus cells from women with EIII/IV with endometrioma were compared with controls (DEG, n = 461). In women with EIII/IV without endometrioma, only 66 DEG were verified compared with controls. The enrichment analysis showed that some DEG in cumulus cells of endometriosis are involved in important pathways for the oocyte competence acquisition, such as oxidative phosphorylation, metabolism, mitochondrial function, acetylation and steroid biosynthesis. No DEG were found when cumulus cells from women with EIII/IV with and without endometrioma were compared. CONCLUSION RNA sequencing results suggest that cumulus cells of infertile women with EIII/IV have an altered transcriptome, regardless of endometrioma. The present findings offer a better understanding of the genes and molecular mechanisms that may be involved in endometriosis-related infertility, mostly in the oocyte competence acquisition process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caroline M Da Luz
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto São Paulo 14049-900, Brazil.
| | - Michele G Da Broi
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto São Paulo 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Jessica R Plaça
- Center for Integrative Systems Biology - CISBi, NAP/USP, Ribeirão Preto São Paulo 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Wilson A Silva
- Center for Integrative Systems Biology - CISBi, NAP/USP, Ribeirão Preto São Paulo 14049-900, Brazil; Center for Medical Genomics, HCFMRP/USP, Ribeirão Preto São Paulo 14049-900, Brazil; Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto São Paulo 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Juliana Meola
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto São Paulo 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Paula A Navarro
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto São Paulo 14049-900, Brazil; National Institute of Hormones and Women's Health, CNPq, Porto Alegre Rio Grande do Sul 90035-003, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Hernández-Vargas P, Muñoz M, Domínguez F. Identifying biomarkers for predicting successful embryo implantation: applying single to multi-OMICs to improve reproductive outcomes. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 26:264-301. [PMID: 32096829 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmz042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Revised: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Successful embryo implantation is a complex process that requires the coordination of a series of events, involving both the embryo and the maternal endometrium. Key to this process is the intricate cascade of molecular mechanisms regulated by endocrine, paracrine and autocrine modulators of embryonic and maternal origin. Despite significant progress in ART, implantation failure still affects numerous infertile couples worldwide and fewer than 10% of embryos successfully implant. Improved selection of both the viable embryos and the optimal endometrial phenotype for transfer remains crucial to enhancing implantation chances. However, both classical morphological embryo selection and new strategies incorporated into clinical practice, such as embryonic genetic analysis, morphokinetics or ultrasound endometrial dating, remain insufficient to predict successful implantation. Additionally, no techniques are widely applied to analyse molecular signals involved in the embryo-uterine interaction. More reliable biological markers to predict embryo and uterine reproductive competence are needed to improve pregnancy outcomes. Recent years have seen a trend towards 'omics' methods, which enable the assessment of complete endometrial and embryonic molecular profiles during implantation. Omics have advanced our knowledge of the implantation process, identifying potential but rarely implemented biomarkers of successful implantation. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE Differences between the findings of published omics studies, and perhaps because embryonic and endometrial molecular signatures were often not investigated jointly, have prevented firm conclusions being reached. A timely review summarizing omics studies on the molecular determinants of human implantation in both the embryo and the endometrium will help facilitate integrative and reliable omics approaches to enhance ART outcomes. SEARCH METHODS In order to provide a comprehensive review of the literature published up to September 2019, Medline databases were searched using keywords pertaining to omics, including 'transcriptome', 'proteome', 'secretome', 'metabolome' and 'expression profiles', combined with terms related to implantation, such as 'endometrial receptivity', 'embryo viability' and 'embryo implantation'. No language restrictions were imposed. References from articles were also used for additional literature. OUTCOMES Here we provide a complete summary of the major achievements in human implantation research supplied by omics approaches, highlighting their potential to improve reproductive outcomes while fully elucidating the implantation mechanism. The review highlights the existence of discrepancies among the postulated biomarkers from studies on embryo viability or endometrial receptivity, even using the same omic analysis. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Despite the huge amount of biomarker information provided by omics, we still do not have enough evidence to link data from all omics with an implantation outcome. However, in the foreseeable future, application of minimally or non-invasive omics tools, together with a more integrative interpretation of uniformly collected data, will help to overcome the difficulties for clinical implementation of omics tools. Omics assays of the embryo and endometrium are being proposed or already being used as diagnostic tools for personalised single-embryo transfer in the most favourable endometrial environment, avoiding the risk of multiple pregnancies and ensuring better pregnancy rates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Purificación Hernández-Vargas
- IVI-RMA Alicante, Innovation. Avda. de Denia 111, 03015 Alicante, Spain.,Fundación IVI, Innovation-IIS La Fe, Avda. Fernando Abril Martorell 106, Torre A, 1° 1.23, 46026 Valencia, Spain
| | - Manuel Muñoz
- IVI-RMA Alicante, Innovation. Avda. de Denia 111, 03015 Alicante, Spain.,Fundación IVI, Innovation-IIS La Fe, Avda. Fernando Abril Martorell 106, Torre A, 1° 1.23, 46026 Valencia, Spain
| | - Francisco Domínguez
- Fundación IVI, Innovation-IIS La Fe, Avda. Fernando Abril Martorell 106, Torre A, 1° 1.23, 46026 Valencia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Zhou W, Dimitriadis E. Secreted MicroRNA to Predict Embryo Implantation Outcome: From Research to Clinical Diagnostic Application. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:586510. [PMID: 33072767 PMCID: PMC7537741 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.586510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryo implantation failure is considered a leading cause of infertility and a significant bottleneck for in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment. Confirmed factors that lead to implantation failure involve unhealthy embryos, unreceptive endometrium, and asynchronous development and communication between the two. The quality of embryos is further dependent on sperm parameters, oocyte quality, and early embryo development after fertilization. The extensive involvement of such different factors contributes to the variability of implantation potential across different menstrual cycles. An ideal approach to predict the implantation outcome should not compromise embryo implantation. The use of clinical material, including follicular fluid, cumulus cells, sperm, seminal exosomes, spent blastocyst culture medium, blood, and uterine fluid, that can be collected relatively non-invasively without compromising embryo implantation in a transfer cycle opens new perspectives for the diagnosis of embryo implantation potential. Compositional comparison of these samples between fertile women and women or couples with implantation failure has identified both quantitative and qualitative differences in the expression of microRNAs (miRs) that hold diagnostic potential for implantation failure. Here, we review current findings of secreted miRs that have been identified to potentially be useful in predicting implantation outcome using material that can be collected relatively non-invasively. Developing non-invasive biomarkers of implantation potential would have a major impact on implantation failure and infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Gynaecology Research Centre, The Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Evdokia Dimitriadis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Gynaecology Research Centre, The Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Bartolucci AF, Peluso JJ. Necessity is the mother of invention and the evolutionary force driving the success of in vitro fertilization. Biol Reprod 2020; 104:255-273. [PMID: 32975285 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
During the last few decades, millions of healthy children have been born with the aid of in vitro fertilization (IVF). This success belies the fact that IVF treatment is comprised of a complex series of interventions starting with a customized control ovarian stimulation protocol. This is followed by the induction of oocyte maturation, the retrieval of mature oocytes and in vitro fertilization, which often involves the microinjection of a single sperm into the oocyte. After fertilization, the resulting embryos are cultured for up to 7 days. The best embryos are transferred into the uterus where the embryo implants and hopefully develops into a healthy child. However, frequently the best embryos are biopsied and frozen. The biopsied cells are analyzed to identify those embryos without chromosomal abnormalities. These embryos are eventually thawed and transferred with pregnancy rates as good if not better than embryos that are not biopsied and transferred in a fresh cycle. Thus, IVF treatment requires the coordinated efforts of physicians, nurses, molecular biologists and embryologists to conduct each of these multifaceted phases in a seamless and flawless manner. Even though complex, IVF treatment may seem routine today, but it was not always the case. In this review the evolution of human IVF is presented as a series of innovations that resolved a technical hurdle in one component of IVF while creating challenges that eventually lead to the next major advancement. This step-by-step evolution in the treatment of human infertility is recounted in this review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alison F Bartolucci
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Connecticut Health Center.,The Center for Advanced Reproductive Services, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - John J Peluso
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Connecticut Health Center.,Department of Cell Biology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, USA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Transcriptomics of cumulus cells - a window into oocyte maturation in humans. J Ovarian Res 2020; 13:93. [PMID: 32787963 PMCID: PMC7425158 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-020-00696-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cumulus cells (CC) encapsulate growing oocytes and support their growth and development. Transcriptomic signatures of CC have the potential to serve as valuable non-invasive biomarkers for oocyte competency and potential. The present sibling cumulus-oocyte-complex (COC) cohort study aimed at defining functional variations between oocytes of different maturity exposed to the same stimulation conditions, by assessing the transcriptomic signatures of their corresponding CC. CC were collected from 18 patients with both germinal vesicle and metaphase II oocytes from the same cycle to keep the biological variability between samples to a minimum. RNA sequencing, differential expression, pathway analysis, and leading-edge were performed to highlight functional differences between CC encapsulating oocytes of different maturity. Results Transcriptomic signatures representing CC encapsulating oocytes of different maturity clustered separately on principal component analysis with 1818 genes differentially expressed. CCs encapsulating mature oocytes were more transcriptionally synchronized when compared with CCs encapsulating immature oocytes. Moreover, the transcriptional activity was lower, albeit not absent, in CC encapsulating mature oocytes, with 2407 fewer transcripts detected than in CC encapsulating immature (germinal vesicle - GV) oocytes. Hallmark pathways and ovarian processes that were affected by oocyte maturity included cell cycle regulation, steroid metabolism, apoptosis, extracellular matrix remodeling, and inflammation. Conclusions Herein we review our findings and discuss how they align with previous literature addressing transcriptomic signatures of oocyte maturation. Our findings support the available literature and enhance it with several genes and pathways, which have not been previously implicated in promoting human oocyte maturation. This study lays the ground for future functional studies that can enhance our understanding of human oocyte maturation.
Collapse
|
26
|
Karabulut S, Korkmaz O, Kutlu P, Gozel HE, Keskin I. Effects o follicular fluid oxidative status on human mural granulosa cells, oocyte competency and ICSI parameters. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2020; 252:127-136. [PMID: 32599478 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2020.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Revised: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of the present study was to understand the molecular and genetic alterations involved in follicular fluid oxidative process by investigating human mural granulosa cells and to find possible biomarkers for oocyte competency and ICSI outcome measures. METHODS A total of 166 patients were included in the study. Total antioxidant and oxidant levels of follicular fluids were measured on the day of oocyte pick-up and oxidative status were calculated. Expression profiles of three potential target proteins in cases of oxidative stress (Hsp70, Tgf-β, Notch1), DNA status and chromatin integrity of mural granulosa cells were analyzed. RESULTS TAS levels were positively correlated with the Hsp70 and Tgf-β expression patterns of mural granulosa cells. Mature oocyte rate and fertilization rates were affected negatively by the presence of oxidative stress and a significant positive correlation was found with the oxidative status and the fertilization rate, whereas no correlation with the remaining ICSI parameters in the overall group. CONCLUSIONS Oxidative stress detected in follicular fluid adversely affects fertilization rates post-ICSI however no effect on the remaining parameters including embryo quality, pregnancy, and implantation rates. DNA damage, chromatin integrity were increased, whereas Hsp70 and Tgf-ß were decreased in mural granulosa cells in cases of oxidative stress which may indirectly reflect the oocyte competency and may be used as biomarkers for ICSI outcome measures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seda Karabulut
- Istanbul Medipol University, International School of Medicine, Histology and Embryology Department, İstanbul, Turkey; Medipol University, School of Medicine, Kavacık, İstanbul, REMER (Regenerative and Restorative Medicine Research Center), Kavacık Mah. Ekinciler Cad. No.19 Kavacık Kavşağı 34810 Beykoz, İstanbul, Turkey.
| | - Oya Korkmaz
- Istanbul Medipol University, International School of Medicine, Histology and Embryology Department, İstanbul, Turkey; Medipol University, School of Medicine, Kavacık, İstanbul, REMER (Regenerative and Restorative Medicine Research Center), Kavacık Mah. Ekinciler Cad. No.19 Kavacık Kavşağı 34810 Beykoz, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Pelin Kutlu
- Medicana Çamlıca Hospital, IVF Center, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Hilal Eren Gozel
- Istanbul Medipol University, International School of Medicine, Histology and Embryology Department, İstanbul, Turkey; Medipol University, School of Medicine, Kavacık, İstanbul, REMER (Regenerative and Restorative Medicine Research Center), Kavacık Mah. Ekinciler Cad. No.19 Kavacık Kavşağı 34810 Beykoz, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Ilknur Keskin
- Istanbul Medipol University, International School of Medicine, Histology and Embryology Department, İstanbul, Turkey; Medipol University, School of Medicine, Kavacık, İstanbul, REMER (Regenerative and Restorative Medicine Research Center), Kavacık Mah. Ekinciler Cad. No.19 Kavacık Kavşağı 34810 Beykoz, İstanbul, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Fortin CS, Hamilton S, Laforest M, Léveillé MC, Sirard MA. Patients who failed to conceive following an in vitro fertilization cycle can be clustered into different failure causes using gene expression hierarchical analysis†. Biol Reprod 2020; 103:599-607. [PMID: 32483601 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The patient's response to an IVF stimulation protocol is highly variable and thus difficult to predict. When a cycle fails, there are often no apparent or obvious reasons to explain the failure. Having clues on what went wrong during stimulation could serve as a basis to improve and personalize the next protocol. This exploratory study aimed to investigate if it is possible to distinguish different failure causes or different follicular responses in a population of nonpregnant IVF patients. Using qRT-PCR, we analyzed a panel of genes indicative of different failure causes in patients who did not achieve pregnancy following an IVF cycle. For each patient, a pool of follicular cells from all aspirated follicles was used as a sample which gives a global picture of the patient's ovary and not a specific picture of each follicle. We performed hierarchical clustering analysis to split the patients according to the gene expression pattern. Hierarchical analysis showed that the population of nonpregnant IVF patients could be divided into three clusters. Gene expression was significantly different, and each cluster displayed a particular gene expression pattern. Follicular cells from patients in clusters 1, 2 and 3 displayed respectively a pattern of gene expression related to large incompetent follicles with a higher apoptosis (over matured), to follicles not ready to ovulate (under mature) and to an excess of inflammation with no visible symptoms. This study reinforces the idea that women often have different response to the same protocol and would benefit from more personalized treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chloé S Fortin
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle (CRDSI), Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Marc-André Sirard
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle (CRDSI), Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Mitochondrial Function in Modulating Human Granulosa Cell Steroidogenesis and Female Fertility. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21103592. [PMID: 32438750 PMCID: PMC7279321 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21103592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian follicle steroidogenesis associated with embryo quality results in a successful pregnancy. Each follicle consists of an oocyte surrounded by granulosa cells, which secrete several steroid and peptide hormones. Follicles harvested from women who conceived after assisted reproductive therapy (ART) had significantly higher estradiol levels in follicular fluids than the follicles from women who failed to conceive after ART. The higher follicular estradiol levels correlate well with successful fertilization following ART. Mitochondria are the central sites for steroid hormone biosynthesis. The first and rate-limiting step in the biosynthesis of steroid hormones occurs in the mitochondria of granulosa cells. In the present study, we hypothesized that the mitochondria in granulosa cells are critical for maintaining oocyte quality and fertility capacity. This study aims to clarify the relationship between mitochondrial function and granulosa cell steroidogenesis, and the relationship between hormone levels and fertility capacity. Sera, follicular fluids and granulosa cells were obtained from individuals undergoing IVF-ET treatment. The oocyte numbers, oocyte quality, fertilization rate, and pregnancy rate were also recorded. The patients who provided the granulosa cells were further classified into four groups: endometriosis, ovarian endometrioma, endometriosis without ovarian endometrioma, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS); patients with other female factor infertility and male factor infertility were used as controls. We measured the levels of estradiol (E2) by radioimmunoassay. Concurrently, we analyzed the mitochondrial mass and membrane potential, and apoptosis by flow cytometry using nonyl acridine orange, TMRE, Annexin V-FITC and PI. Mitochondrial morphology was visualized by transfection with pLV-mitoDsRed. In addition, we assessed the protein levels of steroidogenic enzymes, steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) by Western blot. The results showed significantly decreased serum E2 and follicular E2 levels, and decreased IVF outcomes, in the patients with endometriosis. Reduced mitochondrial mass and decreased mitochondrial membrane potential were correlated with lower E2. Furthermore, a significant decrease in StAR and 3β-HSD was found in patients with ovarian endometrioma. The enzyme levels of StAR and 3β-HSD were highly correlated with E2 levels. Finally, elevated cumulus cell apoptosis was found in the patient group with ovarian endometrioma and PCOS. In conclusion, mitochondrial dysfunction of human granulosa cells may contribute to the decline of steroidogenesis, decreased fertilization rate, oocyte maturation rate, and oocyte quality, and it can ultimately jeopardize fertility.
Collapse
|
29
|
Tesfaye D, Hailay T, Salilew-Wondim D, Hoelker M, Bitseha S, Gebremedhn S. Extracellular vesicle mediated molecular signaling in ovarian follicle: Implication for oocyte developmental competence. Theriogenology 2020; 150:70-74. [PMID: 32088041 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.01.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The bidirectional communication between the oocyte and the companion somatic cells in the follicular environment is known to be mediated by either a direct communication via gap junction or transzonal projections or indirectly through endocrine, paracrine and autocrine signaling factors. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), which are found in various biological fluids, including follicular fluid (FF) are known to play important roles in mediating the communication between the oocyte and the surrounding somatic cells through shuttling bioactive molecules to facilitate follicular growth and oocyte maturation. As vesicles in the extracellular space are known to reflect the physiological status of the donor or the releasing cells, molecules carried by the EVs in the follicular environment could be markers of the internal and external stressors. EVs exhibit greater degree of heterogeneity in their size, biogenesis and the bioactive molecule they carry. The process of biogenesis of EVs is known to be regulated by several proteins associated with the endosomal sorting complex required for transport (ESCRT) proteins. The type of EVs and surface proteins markers vary according to the type of protein involved in their biogenesis. EVs are recently reported to play indispensable role in promoting cell-to-cell communication during follicular growth. Recent advancements in EV research opened the possibilities to load EVs with specific molecules like miRNA, siRNA, CRISPR-cas9 complex and protein, which showed a new horizon for their application in therapeutics. The present review explores the biogenesis, the role and the future prospects of EVs with a special emphasis given to follicular growth and oocyte maturation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dawit Tesfaye
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology Laboratory (ARBL), Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA.
| | - Tsige Hailay
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Department of Animal Breeding and Husbandry, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Dessie Salilew-Wondim
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Department of Animal Breeding and Husbandry, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Michael Hoelker
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Department of Animal Breeding and Husbandry, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Simret Bitseha
- Hawassa University, College of Agriculture, Department of Animal Sciences, Hawassa, Ethiopia
| | - Samuel Gebremedhn
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology Laboratory (ARBL), Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
McLennan HJ, Saini A, Dunning KR, Thompson JG. Oocyte and embryo evaluation by AI and multi-spectral auto-fluorescence imaging: Livestock embryology needs to catch-up to clinical practice. Theriogenology 2020; 150:255-262. [PMID: 32088032 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.01.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
A highly accurate 'non-invasive quantitative embryo assessment for pregnancy' (NQEAP) technique that determines embryo quality has been an elusive goal. If developed, NQEAP would transform the selection of embryos from both Multiple Ovulation and Embryo Transfer (MOET), and even more so, in vitro produced (IVP) embryos for livestock breeding. The area where this concept is already having impact is in the field of clinical embryology, where great strides have been taken in the application of morphokinetics and artificial intelligence (AI); while both are already in practice, rigorous and robust evidence of efficacy is still required. Even the translation of advances in the qualitative scoring of human IVF embryos have yet to be translated to the livestock IVP industry, which remains dependent on the MOET-standardised 3-point scoring system. Furthermore, there are new ways to interrogate the biochemistry of individual embryonic cells by using new, light-based methodologies, such as FLIM and hyperspectral microscopy. Combinations of these technologies, in particular combining new imaging systems with AI, will lead to very accurate NQEAP predictive tools, improving embryo selection and recipient pregnancy success.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H J McLennan
- Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5005, Australia; ARC Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics & Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5005, Australia
| | - A Saini
- Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5005, Australia; ARC Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics & Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5005, Australia
| | - K R Dunning
- Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5005, Australia; ARC Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics & Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5005, Australia
| | - J G Thompson
- Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5005, Australia; ARC Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics & Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5005, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Telomere Length and Telomerase Activity in Immature Oocytes and Cumulus Cells of Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Reprod Sci 2020; 27:1293-1303. [PMID: 32046456 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-019-00120-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Metaphase II oocytes (MII) from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) frequently have impaired oocyte competence. Since telomere maintenance is important for folliculogenesis, oocyte maturation, and early embryonic development, we sought to verify the implications of PCOS on telomere length and telomerase activity in immature oocytes and cumulus cells. 43 PCOS and 67 control women were included, and anthropometric, biochemical, and hormonal characteristics were evaluated. The telomere length in germinal vesicle stage (GV) and in metaphase I (MI) oocytes, as well as in the cumulus cells of immature (CCI) and mature oocytes (CCM), and in leukocytes was measured by qPCR. The telomerase activity in reproductive cells was evaluated by the TRAPeze® XL Kit. The body mass index (p = 0.001), LH (p = 0.015), estradiol (p = 0.004), insulin (p = 0.002), testosterone (p < 0.0001), androstenedione (p = 0.001), free androgen index (p < 0.0001), and c-reactive protein (p = 0.003) were greater, while the FSH (p = 0.0002) was lower in the PCOS group. The telomere length in the CCI (p = 0.649) and CCM (p = 0.378) did not differ between the PCOS and the control groups. On the other hand, telomerase activity in the CCI (p = 0.003) and CCM (p = 0.022) was higher in the PCOS group. In the leukocyte's cells, the telomere length was reduced in the PCOS group (p = 0.025). In the GV and MI oocytes, no differences were observed in telomere length and telomerase activity between the groups. We showed that telomere length is not altered in reproductive cells from PCOS. However, higher telomerase activity in the CCI and CCM may be required for telomere length maintenance.
Collapse
|
32
|
Tahir MS, Nguyen LT, Schulz BL, Boe-Hansen GA, Thomas MG, Moore SS, Lau LY, Fortes MRS. Proteomics Recapitulates Ovarian Proteins Relevant to Puberty and Fertility in Brahman Heifers ( Bos indicus L.). Genes (Basel) 2019; 10:E923. [PMID: 31726744 PMCID: PMC6895798 DOI: 10.3390/genes10110923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
High fertility and early puberty in Bos indicus heifers are desirable and genetically correlated traits in beef production. The hypothalamus-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis synthesizes steroid hormones, which contribute to the shift from the pre-pubertal state into the post-pubertal state and influence subsequent fertility. Understanding variations in abundance of proteins that govern steroid synthesis and ovarian signaling pathways remains crucial to understanding puberty and fertility. We used whole ovaries of six pre-pubertal and six post-pubertal Brahman heifers to conduct differential abundance analyses of protein profiles between the two physiological states. Extracted proteins were digested into peptides followed by identification and quantification with massspectrometry (MS) by sequential window acquisition of all instances of theoretical fragment ion mass spectrometry (SWATH-MS). MS and statistical analysis identified 566 significantly differentially abundant (DA) proteins (adjusted p < 0.05), which were then analyzed for gene ontology and pathway enrichment. Our data indicated an up-regulation of steroidogenic proteins contributing to progesterone synthesis at luteal phase post-puberty. Proteins related to progesterone signaling, TGF-β, retinoic acid, extracellular matrix, cytoskeleton, and pleiotrophin signaling were DA in this study. The DA proteins probably relate to the formation and function of the corpus luteum, which is only present after ovulation, post-puberty. Some DA proteins might also be related to granulosa cells signaling, which regulates oocyte maturation or arrest in ovaries prior to ovulation. Ten DA proteins were coded by genes previously associated with reproductive traits according to the animal quantitative trait loci (QTL) database. In conclusion, the DA proteins and their pathways were related to ovarian activity in Bos indicus cattle. The genes that code for these proteins may explain some known QTLs and could be targeted in future genetic studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad S. Tahir
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, Brisbane 4072, Queensland, Australia; (M.S.T.); (B.L.S.); (L.Y.L.)
| | - Loan T. Nguyen
- Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, University of Queensland, Brisbane 4072, Queensland, Australia; (L.T.N.); (S.S.M.)
| | - Benjamin L. Schulz
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, Brisbane 4072, Queensland, Australia; (M.S.T.); (B.L.S.); (L.Y.L.)
| | - Gry A. Boe-Hansen
- School of Veterinary Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane 4343, Queensland, Australia;
| | - Milton G. Thomas
- Department of Animal Science, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA;
| | - Stephen S. Moore
- Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, University of Queensland, Brisbane 4072, Queensland, Australia; (L.T.N.); (S.S.M.)
| | - Li Yieng Lau
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, Brisbane 4072, Queensland, Australia; (M.S.T.); (B.L.S.); (L.Y.L.)
| | - Marina R. S. Fortes
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, Brisbane 4072, Queensland, Australia; (M.S.T.); (B.L.S.); (L.Y.L.)
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Caetano LC, Miranda-Furtado CL, Batista LA, Pitangui-Molina CP, Higa TT, Padovan CC, Rosa-E-Silva ACJDS. Validation of reference genes for gene expression studies in bovine oocytes and cumulus cells derived from in vitro maturation. Anim Reprod 2019; 16:290-296. [PMID: 33224289 PMCID: PMC7673592 DOI: 10.21451/1984-3143-ar2018-0064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) is a valuable tool for gene expression studies and it is necessary to choose an ideal endogenous reference gene for data normalization. This work studied a set of reference genes in oocytes and cumulus cells of COCs (Cumulus-Oocyte Complexes) that are suitable for relative gene expression analyses after in vitro maturation (IVM) in bovine. Immature COCs were collected from ovaries of Nelore cattle (Bos indicus) and submitted to IVM. MII oocytes and cumulus cells were subjected to RNA extraction, reverse transcription and preamplification of cDNA. The expression level of eight reference genes (ACTB, GADPH, B2M, H2AFZ, GUSB, HPRT1, PPIA, and TBP) was measured by real time PCR and analyzed by geNorm software. The gene stability measure (M) was calculated and the ideal number of reference genes (RGs) was determined by the V value (pairwise variation). For oocyte samples, two RGs were the ideal number for relative quantification: HPRT1 and B2M and for bovine cumulus samples four were indicated: HPRT1, PPIA, B2M, and TBP genes. The normalization of a non-reference target gene (SOD1) by these reference genes was shown to be considerably different from normalization by less stable reference genes. Our results strengthen the importance of choosing good normalizing genes in order to analyze gene expression under specific experimental conditions and we suggest the use of these RGs in oocytes and cumulus cells of bovine cattle in in vitro matured COCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisandra Cristina Caetano
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Luciene Aparecida Batista
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Thaís Tiemi Higa
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Cristiana Carolina Padovan
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Zeng Y, Cao Y, Liu L, Zhao J, Zhang T, Xiao L, Jia M, Tian Q, Yu H, Chen S, Cai Y. SEPT9_i1 regulates human breast cancer cell motility through cytoskeletal and RhoA/FAK signaling pathway regulation. Cell Death Dis 2019; 10:720. [PMID: 31558699 PMCID: PMC6763430 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-019-1947-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2019] [Revised: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Increasing cell mobility is the basis of tumor invasion and metastasis, and is therefore a therapeutic target for preventing the spread of many types of cancer. Septins are a family of cytoskeletal proteins with GTPase activity, and play a role in many important cellular functions, including cell migration. SEPT9 isoform 1 protein (SEPT9_i1) has been associated with breast tumor development and the enhancement of cell migration; however, the exact mechanism of how SEPT9_i1 might affect breast cancer progression remains to be elucidated. Here, we report that the expression of SEPT9_i1 positively correlated with paxillin, and both were significantly upregulated in invasive breast cancer tissues of patients with lymph node metastases. Lentivirus-mediated shRNA knockdown of SEPT9 in MCF-7 cells diminished tumor cell migration, focal adhesion (FA) maturation and the expression of β-actin, β-tubulin, Cdc42, RhoA, and Rac, whereas overexpression of SEPT9_i1 in SEPT9-knockdown MCF-7 cells promoted cell migration, FA maturation and relevant protein expression. Furthermore, overexpression of SEPT9_i1 in MCF-7 cells markedly increased FAK/Src/paxillin signaling, at least in part through RhoA/ROCK1 upstream activation. Transcriptome profiling suggested that SEPT9_i1 may directly affect “Focal adhesion” and “Regulation of actin cytoskeleton” signaling mechanisms. Finally, overexpression of SEPT9_i1 markedly enhanced lung metastases in vivo 6 weeks after tumor inoculation. These findings suggest that a mechanism of Septin-9-induced aberrant cancer cell migration is through cytoskeletal regulation and FA modulation, and encourages the use of SEPT9 as novel therapeutic target in the prevention of tumor metastasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yongqiu Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic, and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects, Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China. .,Department of Medical Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.
| | - Yang Cao
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Lan Liu
- Department of Medical Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Jiao Zhao
- Department of Medical Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Department of Medical Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Lifan Xiao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Man Jia
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Qiang Tian
- Department of Medical Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Hong Yu
- Department of Medical Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Shaokun Chen
- Department of Medical Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Yansen Cai
- Department of Medical Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Broi MGD, Ferriani RA, Navarro PA. Ethiopathogenic mechanisms of endometriosis-related infertility. JBRA Assist Reprod 2019; 23:273-280. [PMID: 31091056 PMCID: PMC6724396 DOI: 10.5935/1518-0557.20190029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a highly prevalent disease among women of reproductive age and
is frequently associated to infertility. However, the mechanisms underlying
endometriosis-related infertility are still not completely known. Several
studies have been conducted in order to elucidate this question. Besides
anatomical changes that may impair gametes and embryo transport along the tubes;
a smaller ovarian reserve due to advanced endometriosis and endometriomas; and a
dysregulated hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, there are pieces of evidence
suggesting that the peritoneal ectopic endometrial foci may induce a local
inflammatory response, with the recruitment of macrophages, cytokine release,
and reactive oxygen species generation, leading to a pro-oxidant peritoneal
microenvironment. These alterations may be systemically reflected and also
affect the follicular microenvironment. A harmful follicular fluid may disrupt
cumulus cells functions and, consequently, compromise oocyte competence. There
is also evidence suggesting that the peritoneal fluid of women with
endometriosis may alter sperm function. Reduced endometrial receptivity is also
pointed as a possible mechanism involved in endometriosis-related infertility,
which needs further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michele Gomes Da Broi
- Human Reproduction Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Rui Alberto Ferriani
- Human Reproduction Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.,National Institute of Hormones and Woman's Health, CNPq, Brazil
| | - Paula Andrea Navarro
- Human Reproduction Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.,National Institute of Hormones and Woman's Health, CNPq, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Hosseini E, Shahhoseini M, Afsharian P, Karimian L, Ashrafi M, Mehraein F, Afatoonian R. Role of epigenetic modifications in the aberrant CYP19A1 gene expression in polycystic ovary syndrome. Arch Med Sci 2019; 15:887-895. [PMID: 31360184 PMCID: PMC6657255 DOI: 10.5114/aoms.2019.86060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2017] [Accepted: 04/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In this study, the global DNA methylation, histone acetylation and methylation levels of cumulus cells (CCs) in infertile polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients and the correlation of these epigenetic modifications with the expression of the ovarian aromatase gene (as an important marker in the etiology of PCOS) were investigated. MATERIAL AND METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted on 24 patients (12 PCOS patients and 12 healthy women), who underwent ovarian stimulation. Nucleosome ELISA was performed, in order to identify the global occupancy level of Mecp2 (as a marker of DNA methylation) and H3K9me2/H3K9ac as histone modification markers in chromatin fractions obtained from CCs. The CYP19A1 gene expression was measured by qRT-PCR. The level of DNA incorporation of MeCP2, histone modification markers and binding of estrogen receptor β (ERβ) to CYP19A1 regulatory sequences were examined by ChIP-QPCR assay. RESULTS The data demonstrate a significant increase in global occupancy levels of MeCP2 and H3K9ac markers and a decrease of H3K9me2 to chromatin in CCs of PCOS patients vs. control group. Furthermore, CYP19A1 gene expression, and the incorporation of H3K9ac in PII, PI.3, and PI.4 promoters of CYP19A1 in PCOS, were higher than those of controls. Also, significant hypomethylation of H3K9 at PII and DNA hypomethylated at PII and PI.3 promoters and differential binding of ERβ to three promoters were observed in PCOS patients (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Aromatase expression can be affected by epigenetic modifications and differential ERβ binding to the proximal CYP19A1 promoters. These mechanisms may be involved in the enhanced aromatase transcription during ovarian stimulation in PCOS patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elham Hosseini
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IVF Clinic, Mousavi Hospital, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Maryam Shahhoseini
- Reproductive Epidemiology Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Genetics, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Parvaneh Afsharian
- Department of Genetics, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Karimian
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahnaz Ashrafi
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fereshteh Mehraein
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Minimally Invasive Surgery Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Afatoonian
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Kordus RJ, Hossain A, Corso MC, Chakraborty H, Whitman-Elia GF, LaVoie HA. Cumulus cell pappalysin-1, luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor, amphiregulin and hydroxy-delta-5-steroid dehydrogenase, 3 beta- and steroid delta-isomerase 1 mRNA levels associate with oocyte developmental competence and embryo outcomes. J Assist Reprod Genet 2019; 36:1457-1469. [PMID: 31187330 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-019-01489-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 05/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine whether a selected set of mRNA biomarkers expressed in individual cumulus granulosa cell (CC) masses show association with oocyte developmental competence, embryo ploidy status, and embryo outcomes. METHODS This prospective observational cohort pilot study assessed levels of mRNA biomarkers in 163 individual CC samples from 15 women stimulated in antagonist cycles. Nineteen mRNA biomarker levels were measured by real-time PCR and related to the development of their corresponding individually cultured oocytes and subsequent embryos, embryo ploidy status, and live birth outcomes. RESULTS PAPPA mRNA levels were significantly higher in CC from oocytes that led to euploid embryos resulting in live births and aneuploid embryos compared to immature oocytes by ANOVA. LHCGR mRNA levels were significantly higher in CC of oocytes resulting in embryos associated with live birth compared to immature oocytes and oocytes resulting in arrested embryos by ANOVA. Using a general linearized mixed model to assess ploidy status, CC HSD3B mRNA levels in oocytes producing euploid embryos were significantly lower than other oocyte outcomes, collectively. When transferred euploid embryos outcomes were analyzed by ANOVA, AREG mRNA levels were significantly lower and PAPPA mRNA levels significantly higher in CC from oocytes that produced live births compared to transferred embryos that did not form a pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, PAPPA, LHCGR, and AREG mRNA levels in CC may be able to identify oocytes with the best odds of resulting in a live birth, and HSD3B1 mRNA levels may be able to identify oocytes capable of producing euploid embryos.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Kordus
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA
- Fertility Center of the Carolinas, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Prisma Health - Upstate, Greenville, SC, USA
| | - Akhtar Hossain
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Michael C Corso
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA
| | | | - Gail F Whitman-Elia
- Advanced Fertility and Reproductive Endocrinology Institute, LLC, Columbia, SC, USA
- Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Holly A LaVoie
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Gene expression analysis of follicular cells revealed inflammation as a potential IVF failure cause. J Assist Reprod Genet 2019; 36:1195-1210. [PMID: 31001707 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-019-01447-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Hormonal stimulation prior to IVF influences the ovarian environment and therefore impacts oocytes and subsequent embryo quality. Not every patient has the same response to the same treatment and many fail for unknown reasons. Knowing why a cycle has failed and how the follicles were affected would allow clinicians to adapt the treatment accordingly and improve success rate. This study examines the hypothesis that transcriptomic analysis of follicular cells from failed IVF cycles reveals potential reasons for failure and provides new information on the physiological mechanisms related to IVF failure. METHODS Follicular cells (granulosa cells) were obtained from IVF patients of four Canadian fertility clinics. Using microarray analysis, patients that did not become pregnant following the IVF cycle were compared to those that did. Functional analysis was performed using ingenuity pathway analysis and qRT-PCR was used to validate the microarray results in a larger cohort of patients. RESULTS The microarray showed 165 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the negative group compared to the pregnancy group. DEGs include many pro-inflammatory cytokines and other factors related to inflammation, suggesting that this process might be altered when IVF fails. Overexpression of several factors, some of which act upstream from vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), also indicates increased permeability and vasodilation. Some DEGs were related to abnormal differentiation and increased apoptosis. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that failure to conceive following IVF cycles could be associated with an imbalance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory mediators. The findings of this study identify potential failure causes and pathways for further investigation. Stimulatory protocols personalized according to patient response could improve the chances of later success.
Collapse
|
39
|
Ranjbaran A, Latifi Z, Nejabati HR, Abroon S, Mihanfar A, Sadigh AR, Fattahi A, Nouri M, Raffel N. Exosome‐based intercellular communication in female reproductive microenvironments. J Cell Physiol 2019; 234:19212-19222. [DOI: 10.1002/jcp.28668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2018] [Revised: 03/25/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ali Ranjbaran
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Tabriz Iran
| | - Zeinab Latifi
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medical Sciences Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Tabriz Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Nejabati
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medical Sciences Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Tabriz Iran
| | - Sina Abroon
- Stem Cell Research Center Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Tabriz Iran
| | - Aynaz Mihanfar
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine Urmia University of Medical Sciences Urmia Iran
| | - Aydin Raei Sadigh
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medical Sciences Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Tabriz Iran
| | - Amir Fattahi
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Tabriz Iran
- Student Research Committee Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Tabriz Iran
| | - Mohammad Nouri
- Stem Cell Research Center Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Tabriz Iran
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Tabriz Iran
| | - Nathalie Raffel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Erlangen University Hospital, Friedrich‐Alexander‐Universität Erlangen‐Nürnberg Erlangen Germany
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Otte MV, Moreira F, Bianchi I, Oliveira J, Mendes RE, Haas CS, Anciuti AN, Rovani MT, Gasperin BG, Lucia T. Effects of supplying omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids to gilts after weaning on metabolism and ovarian gene expression. J Anim Sci 2019; 97:374-384. [PMID: 30371788 PMCID: PMC6313109 DOI: 10.1093/jas/sky419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Accepted: 10/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Omega-3 PUFA may benefit sow reproductive performance, but effects on weaned gilts are unknown. This study evaluated the effects of supplementing omega-3 PUFA to gilts after weaning on growth, metabolic markers, and gene expression of steroidogenic enzymes and hormone receptors. For 52 d, gilts in the control group were fed 100 g/d of regular diets, whereas gilts in the omega-3 group were fed 75 g/d of such diets plus 25 g/d of the microalgae Schizochytium sp. (3.5 g/d of omega-3 PUFA; n = 8 gilts/group). Blood samples were collected at day 0, day 21, and day 52. Total serum cholesterol levels were lower for the omega-3 group than for the control group (P < 0.05), but high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels were reduced at day 52 for both groups (P < 0.05). Gilts in the omega-3 group presented lower feed intake, better feed conversion, and less-intense immunolabeling for leptin and its receptor in the cytoplasm of oocytes included in primordial/primary follicles than gilts in the control group (P < 0.05). The expression of genes coding for cholesterol side-chain cleavage and aromatase enzymes and the LH receptor in follicular cells was lower for supplemented gilts (P < 0.05). Compared with controls, supplemented gilts presented decreased serum cholesterol levels and better feed conversion, but leptin presence and gene expression for steroidogenic enzymes and for the LH receptor were lower at ovarian level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marina V Otte
- ReproPel, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Capão do Leão, RS, Brazil
| | | | - Ivan Bianchi
- Instituto Federal Catarinense, Araquari, SC, Brazil
| | | | | | - Cristina S Haas
- ReproPel, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Capão do Leão, RS, Brazil
| | - Andreia N Anciuti
- ReproPel, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Capão do Leão, RS, Brazil
| | | | - Bernardo G Gasperin
- ReproPel, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Capão do Leão, RS, Brazil
| | - Thomaz Lucia
- ReproPel, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Capão do Leão, RS, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Artini PG, Tatone C, Sperduti S, D'Aurora M, Franchi S, Di Emidio G, Ciriminna R, Vento M, Di Pietro C, Stuppia L, Gatta V. Cumulus cells surrounding oocytes with high developmental competence exhibit down-regulation of phosphoinositol 1,3 kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) signalling genes involved in proliferation and survival. Hum Reprod 2018; 32:2474-2484. [PMID: 29087515 PMCID: PMC5850344 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dex320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2017] [Accepted: 10/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is the phosphoinositol 1,3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) pathway expression profile in cumulus cells (CCs) a potential marker of oocyte competence and predictive of pregnancy outcome? SUMMARY ANSWER Eleven genes (AKT1, ARHGEF7, BCL2L1, CCND1, E2F1, HRAS, KCNH2, PIK3C2A, SHC1, SOS1 and SPP1) in the PI3K/AKT pathway were significantly down-regulated in CCs from oocytes that went on to produce a pregnancy compared to CCs associated with a negative outcome. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The PI3K/AKT pathway plays a pivotal role in the interdependence and continuous feedback between the oocyte and CCs. STUDY DESIGN SIZE, DURATION The expression analysis of 92 transcripts in the PI3K/AKT pathway in CCs from patients with negative or positive pregnancy outcome, after single embryo transfer, was performed. Mouse CCs target gene expression was conducted to associate the expression profile of PI3K/AKT pathway to oocyte developmental profile. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Fifty-five good prognosis IVF patients who had been referred to IVF or intracytoplasmic sperm injection treatment for male-factor infertility or tubal disease were enroled. CCs from single cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) from 16 patients who underwent a single embryo transfer were analyzed. Twenty-five CD-1 mice were used to assess gene expression in CCs associated with oocytes with different competence in relation to hCG priming. A total 220 human COCs were collected. The RNA extracted from CCs of 16 selected patients was used to analyze PI3K/AKT pathway gene expression employing a 96-well custom TaqMan Array. Expression data of CCs associated to positive IVF outcome were compared to data from negative outcome samples. Mice were sacrificed after 9, 12, 15, 21 and 24 h post-hCG administration to obtain CCs from MII oocytes with different developmental competence. Akt1, Bcl2l2 and Shc1 expression were tested in the collected mouse CCs. In addition, the expression of upstream regulator ESR1, the gene encoding for the oestrogen receptor ERβ, and the downstream effectors of the pathway FOXO1, FOXO3 and FOXO4 was evaluated in human and mouse samples. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Transcripts involved in the PI3K Signaling Pathway were selectively modulated according to the IVF/ICSI outcome of the oocyte. Eleven transcripts in this pathway were significantly down-regulated in all samples of CCs from oocytes with positive when compared those with a negative outcome. These outcomes were confirmed in mouse CCs associated with oocytes at different maturation stages. Expression data revealed that the down-regulation of ESR1 could be related to oocyte competence and is likely to be the driver of expression changes highlighted in the PI3K/AKT pathway. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION Small sample size and retrospective design. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The CCs expression profile of PI3K/AKT signaling genes, disclosed a specific CCs gene signature related to oocyte competence. It could be speculated that CCs associated with competent oocytes have completed their role in sustaining oocyte development and are influencing their fate in response to metabolic and hormonal changes by de-activating anti-apoptotic signals. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) Supported by Merck Serono an affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany (research grant for the laboratory session; Merck KGaA reviewed the manuscript for medical accuracy only before journal submission. The authors are fully responsible for the content of this manuscript, and the views and opinions described in the publication reflect solely those of the authors). The authors declare no conflict of interest.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P G Artini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology Oncology, University of Pisa, Via Savi 10, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - C Tatone
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Piazzale Salvatore Tommasi 1, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - S Sperduti
- Functional Genetics Unit, Center of Excellence on Aging (Ce.S.I.-Met), Via Dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - M D'Aurora
- Functional Genetics Unit, Center of Excellence on Aging (Ce.S.I.-Met), Via Dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy.,Department of Psychological, Health and Territorial Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, 'G.d'Annunzio' University, Via Dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - S Franchi
- Functional Genetics Unit, Center of Excellence on Aging (Ce.S.I.-Met), Via Dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy.,Department of Psychological, Health and Territorial Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, 'G.d'Annunzio' University, Via Dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - G Di Emidio
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Piazzale Salvatore Tommasi 1, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - R Ciriminna
- AMBRA-Associazione Medici e Biologi per la Riproduzione Assistita, Palermo, Italy
| | - M Vento
- IVF Unit, Cannizzaro Hospital, Catania, Italy
| | - C Di Pietro
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Biotechnolgy, Section of Biology and Genetics G. Sichel, University of Catania, Via S.Sofia, 87, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - L Stuppia
- Functional Genetics Unit, Center of Excellence on Aging (Ce.S.I.-Met), Via Dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy.,Department of Psychological, Health and Territorial Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, 'G.d'Annunzio' University, Via Dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - V Gatta
- Functional Genetics Unit, Center of Excellence on Aging (Ce.S.I.-Met), Via Dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy.,Department of Psychological, Health and Territorial Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, 'G.d'Annunzio' University, Via Dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Maas K, Mirabal S, Penzias A, Sweetnam PM, Eggan KC, Sakkas D. Hippo signaling in the ovary and polycystic ovarian syndrome. J Assist Reprod Genet 2018; 35:1763-1771. [PMID: 30120633 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-018-1235-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2017] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To provide a commentary on our understanding of the role that the Hippo signaling pathway may play in patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and how this understanding may impact the diagnosis of PCOS. METHODS We assessed publications discussing the role of the Hippo signaling pathway in the ovary. In particular, we discuss how Hippo signaling disruption after ovarian fragmentation, combined with treating ovarian fragments with phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) inhibitors and phosphoinositide-3-kinase stimulators to augment AKT signaling, has been used in treatment of patients with primary ovarian insufficiency. Furthermore, we discuss our own data on variations in Hippo signaling pathway gene expression in cumulus cells isolated from women undergoing IVF with a previous diagnosis of PCOS. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Aberrant Hippo signaling in PCOS patients is likely a contributing mechanism to the multifactorial etiology of the disease. Given the challenge of discerning the underlying etiology of oligo-ovulation in some patients, especially those with normal body mass indices, and the need for customized stimulation protocols for PCOS patients who have an increased risk of over-response and higher percentage of immature oocyte yield, it is important to identify these patients prior to treatment. Hippo gene expression fingerprints could potentially be used to more accurately define patients with PCOS. Additionally, targeting this pathway with pharmacologic agents could lead to non-surgical therapeutic options for PCOS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristi Maas
- Boston IVF, 130 Second Ave., Waltham, MA, 02451, USA.,OB/GYN, REI Division, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Fertility Specialists Medical Group, 8010 Frost Street Suite P, San Diego, CA, 92123, USA
| | - Sheyla Mirabal
- CellBridge LLC, Salem, MA, USA.,Nano Terra Inc, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Alan Penzias
- Boston IVF, 130 Second Ave., Waltham, MA, 02451, USA.,OB/GYN, REI Division, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Paul M Sweetnam
- CellBridge LLC, Salem, MA, USA.,Nano Terra Inc, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | - Denny Sakkas
- Boston IVF, 130 Second Ave., Waltham, MA, 02451, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Zhang GL, Song JL, Ji CL, Feng YL, Yu J, Nyachoti CM, Yang GS. Zearalenone Exposure Enhanced the Expression of Tumorigenesis Genes in Donkey Granulosa Cells via the PTEN/ PI3K/ AKT Signaling Pathway. Front Genet 2018; 9:293. [PMID: 30108608 PMCID: PMC6079390 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2018.00293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2018] [Accepted: 07/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Zearalenone (ZEA) is a natural contaminant existing in food and feed products that exhibits a negative effect on domestic animals’ reproduction. Donkeys possess high economic value in China and are at risk of exposure to ZEA. However, few information is available on ZEA-induced toxicity and no report on toxicity in donkeys can be found in scientific literature. We investigated the biological effects of ZEA exposure on donkey granulosa cells (dGCs) by using RNA-seq analysis. ZEA at 10 and 30 μM were administered to GCs within 72 h of in vitro culture. ZEA at 10 μM significantly altered the tumorigenesis associated genes in dGCs. Exposure to 10 and 30 μM ZEA treatment significantly reduced mRNA expression of PTEN, TGFβ, ATM, and CDK2 genes, particularly, the ZEA treatment significantly increased the expression of PI3K and AKT genes. Furthermore, immunofluorescence, RT-qPCR, and Western blot analysis verified the gene expression of ZEA-exposed GCs. Collectively, these results demonstrated the deleterious effect of ZEA exposure on the induction of ovarian cancer related genes via the PTEN/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in dGCs in vitro.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guo-Liang Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China.,National Engineering Research Center for Gelatin-based Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dong-E-E-Jiao Co., Ltd., Liaocheng, China
| | - Jun-Lin Song
- Central Laboratory, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Chuan-Liang Ji
- National Engineering Research Center for Gelatin-based Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dong-E-E-Jiao Co., Ltd., Liaocheng, China
| | - Yu-Long Feng
- National Engineering Research Center for Gelatin-based Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dong-E-E-Jiao Co., Ltd., Liaocheng, China
| | - Jie Yu
- National Engineering Research Center for Gelatin-based Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dong-E-E-Jiao Co., Ltd., Liaocheng, China
| | - Charles M Nyachoti
- Department of Animal Science, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Gong-She Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Kahraman S, Çetinkaya CP, Çetinkaya M, Tüfekçi MA, Ekmekçi CG, Montag M. Is there a correlation between follicle size and gene expression in cumulus cells and is gene expression an indicator of embryo development? Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2018; 16:69. [PMID: 30031399 PMCID: PMC6054838 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-018-0388-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2018] [Accepted: 07/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In an article published in 2017, we discussed the results of the first part of our study into the morphokinetic development of embryos in relation to follicle diameter and homogeneity of follicular development. Our findings showed that embryos coming from small follicles in heterogeneous cycles had significantly higher rates of arrest or failure to reach blastocyst than embryos coming from large follicles in homogenous cycles. The aim of this further study was to investigate the relationship between follicular size and gene expression of cumulus cells (CCs) and evaluate whether gene expression could be an indicator of embryo development. METHODS This study was based on 2495 COCs from 184 patients. CC expressions of five genes (TNFAIP6, PTGS2, HAS2, PTX3 and GDF9) were studied by generalized linear mixed models (GLMMs) regarding follicular size. CC expressions were then separately analysed regarding patient-specific variables (age, BMI, AMH and follicular size) in relation to embryos reaching blastocyst (eRB) or top or good quality blastocysts (TQ + GQ) using GLMMs with logit link. RESULTS Follicular size significantly correlated with the potential of an oocyte to develop into a blastocyst: oocytes developing from large follicles were more than twice as likely to develop into an eRB than oocytes from small follicles (p < 0.001). Gene expression of HAS2 and GDF9 correlated with blastocyst quality when separately evaluated with follicular size and the patient specific variables of age, BMI and AMH. However, no such correlation was found in other gene expressions studied. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that differences in the expression of genes studied could be related to follicular size rather than to embryo quality. Although gene expression of HAS2 and GDF9 correlated with blastocyst quality, the only variable correlating with eRB and TQ and GQ blastocysts for each of these five models was follicular size. TRIAL REGISTRATION This prospective cohort study was registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT02230449).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Semra Kahraman
- Istanbul Memorial Hospital, Assisted Reproductive Technologies and Reproductive Genetics Centre, Piyale Pasa Bulvari 34385 Okmeydani Sisli, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Caroline Pirkevi Çetinkaya
- Istanbul Memorial Hospital, Assisted Reproductive Technologies and Reproductive Genetics Centre, Piyale Pasa Bulvari 34385 Okmeydani Sisli, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Murat Çetinkaya
- Istanbul Memorial Hospital, Assisted Reproductive Technologies and Reproductive Genetics Centre, Piyale Pasa Bulvari 34385 Okmeydani Sisli, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Ali Tüfekçi
- Istanbul Memorial Hospital, Assisted Reproductive Technologies and Reproductive Genetics Centre, Piyale Pasa Bulvari 34385 Okmeydani Sisli, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Cumhur Gökhan Ekmekçi
- Istanbul Memorial Hospital, Assisted Reproductive Technologies and Reproductive Genetics Centre, Piyale Pasa Bulvari 34385 Okmeydani Sisli, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Markus Montag
- ilabcomm GmbH, Eisenachstr. 34, 53757, Sankt Augustin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Read CC, Willhelm G, Dyce PW. Connexin 43 coupling in bovine cumulus cells, during the follicular growth phase, and its relationship to in vitro embryo outcomes. Mol Reprod Dev 2018; 85:579-589. [PMID: 29697878 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Accepted: 04/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Gap junctional coupling between cumulus cells is required for oocytes to reach developmental competence. Multiple connexins, which form these gap junctions, have been found within the ovarian follicles of several species including bovine. The aim of this study was to determine the role of connexin 43 (CX43) and its relationship to embryo development, after in vitro fertilization (IVF). Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were obtained from abattoir sourced, mixed breed, bovine ovaries. COCs were isolated from follicles ranging from 2 to 5 mm in size, representing the preselected follicle pool. Immediately after isolation, two cumulus cell biopsies were collected and stored for analysis pending determination of developmental outcomes. Using in vitro procedures, COCs were individually matured, fertilized, and cultured to the blastocyst stage. Biopsies were grouped as originating from COCs that arrested at the two-cell stage (low developmental competence [LDC]) or having developed to the late morula/blastocyst stage (high developmental competence [HDC]), after IVF and embryo culture. The expression level of CX43 was found to be significantly higher in cumulus cells from COCs that had an HDC when compared with those that had an LDC. Moreover, the gap junctional intercellular coupling rate was significantly higher in cumulus from COCs deemed to have an HDC. Significantly higher expression of the cumulus health markers luteinizing hormone receptor and cytochrome p450 19A1 was found in the cumulus originating from oocytes with HDC, suggesting that this system may provide a mechanism for noninvasively testing for oocyte health in preselected bovine follicles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Casey C Read
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama
| | - Gabby Willhelm
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama
| | - Paul W Dyce
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Zhang GL, Song JL, Zhou Y, Zhang RQ, Cheng SF, Sun XF, Qin GQ, Shen W, Li L. Differentiation of sow and mouse ovarian granulosa cells exposed to zearalenone in vitro using RNA-seq gene expression. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2018; 350:78-90. [PMID: 29758222 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2018.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2018] [Revised: 04/24/2018] [Accepted: 05/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Zearalenone (ZEA), a natural contaminant found in feed, has been shown to have a negative impact on domestic animal reproduction, particularly in pigs. There are species-specific differences in the ZEA-induced toxicity pattern. Here, we investigated the different biological effects of ZEA exposure on porcine and mouse granulosa cells, using RNA-seq analysis. We treated murine and porcine granulosa cells with 10 μM and 30 μM ZEA during 72 h of culturing, in vitro. The results showed that 10 μM ZEA exposure significantly altered mitosis associated genes in porcine granulosa cells, while the same treatment significantly altered the steroidogenesis associated genes in mouse granulosa cells. Exposure to 30 μM ZEA resulted in significantly up-regulated expression of inflammatory related genes in porcine granulosa cells as well as the cancer related genes in mouse granulosa cells. Similarly, 30 μM ZEA exposure significantly decreased the expression of tumor suppressor factors in the mouse granulosa cells. Furthermore, immunofluorescence, RT-qPCR as well as western-blot analysis verified the different expression of related genes in ZEA exposed porcine and mouse granulosa cells. Collectively, these results illustrate the presence of species differences with regards to ZEA effects between porcine and mouse ovarian granulosa cells, in vitro.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guo-Liang Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Jun-Lin Song
- Central Laboratory, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, Shandong 266109, China
| | - Yi Zhou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Qingdao Women's and Children's Hospital, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266034, China
| | - Rui-Qian Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Shun-Feng Cheng
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Xiao-Feng Sun
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Guo-Qing Qin
- Institute of Research & Development, Yongda Food, Hebi 458030, China
| | - Wei Shen
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Lan Li
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Quan G, Li J. Circular RNAs: biogenesis, expression and their potential roles in reproduction. J Ovarian Res 2018; 11:9. [PMID: 29343298 PMCID: PMC5773157 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-018-0381-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2017] [Accepted: 01/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Unlike other non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), circular RNA (circRNA) is generally presented as a covalently linked circle lacking both a 5' cap and a 3' tail. circRNAs were thought to be spliced intermediates, byproducts, or products of abnormal RNA splicing events. However, the high-throughput sequencing technology coupled with bioinformatics has recently uncovered thousands of endogenous circRNAs in cells of many different species. These circRNAs show various features, such as abundant expression, evolutionary conservation, cell- or tissue-specific expression, and a higher resistance to degradation caused by exonuclease or ribonuclease (RNase), suggesting their potentially biological significance. However, the function of these circRNAs, their mechanism of action, and the regulation of their biogenesis and degradation remains largely unclear. The current research and findings of circRNA in the context of reproduction will be reviewed. Additionally, the perspectives of circRNAs in the field will be discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guobo Quan
- Yunnan Animal Science and Veterinary Institute, Jindian, Panlong county, Kunming, Yunnan province 650224 China
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Building #70, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1 Canada
| | - Julang Li
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Building #70, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1 Canada
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, Guangdong province China
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Susceptibility of human cumulus cells to bisphenol a In vitro. Reprod Toxicol 2017; 74:189-194. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2017.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2017] [Revised: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 09/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
|
49
|
Bai R, Latifi Z, Kusama K, Nakamura K, Shimada M, Imakawa K. Induction of immune-related gene expression by seminal exosomes in the porcine endometrium. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2017; 495:1094-1101. [PMID: 29155178 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2017.11.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Seminal plasma (SP) is considered as a vehicle to carry sperm into female reproductive tract, of which functions have not been completely understood. This study aimed to identify the function of seminal exosomes on porcine endometrium. Exosomes were isolated from the sperm-rich fraction of boar semen and were confirmed by the expression of exosome marker HSP70 and size distribution using nano-sight tracking analysis. Porcine endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) were then treated with seminal exosomes, and RNA extracted were subjected to global expression analysis. Transcripts related to "immune response", "inflammatory response" and their associated signaling pathways were up-regulated in EECs treated with seminal exosome, whereas those associated with "steroid biosynthesis", "metabolic pathways" and "T cell differentiation" were down-regulated. The decrease in PMVK, SC5D, INSIG1, HSD17B7, NSDHL, HMGCR, SQLE and FDFT1, and increase in CCL20, TNFSF15, AMCFII, CXCL2 and CXCL8 were also found in the endometrium from the naturally mated pigs. Moreover, changes in exosome-induced CYP24A1, EBP, CCL20, AMCFII and IL1A expression were not regulated by the exosome removed SP. These observations indicated that exosomes present in SP are involved in the immune-related gene regulation in the uterus, which could pave the passage for sperm and possibly fertilized eggs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rulan Bai
- Animal Resource Science Center, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Science, The University of Tokyo, Kasama, Ibaraki 319-2606, Japan
| | - Zeinab Latifi
- Animal Resource Science Center, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Science, The University of Tokyo, Kasama, Ibaraki 319-2606, Japan
| | - Kazuya Kusama
- Animal Resource Science Center, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Science, The University of Tokyo, Kasama, Ibaraki 319-2606, Japan
| | - Keigo Nakamura
- Animal Resource Science Center, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Science, The University of Tokyo, Kasama, Ibaraki 319-2606, Japan
| | - Masayuki Shimada
- Department of Applied Animal Science, Graduate School of Biosphere Science, Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima 739-8528, Japan
| | - Kazuhiko Imakawa
- Animal Resource Science Center, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Science, The University of Tokyo, Kasama, Ibaraki 319-2606, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Xu Y, Zhou T, Shao L, Zhang B, Liu K, Gao C, Gao L, Liu J, Cui Y, Chian RC. Gene expression profiles in mouse cumulus cells derived from in vitro matured oocytes with and without blastocyst formation. Gene Expr Patterns 2017; 25-26:46-58. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gep.2017.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2017] [Revised: 05/26/2017] [Accepted: 05/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
|